Choosing a red dress for homecoming isn't just a style choice—it's a statement. Red is the color of confidence, energy, and passion. It’s bold, eye-catching, and guarantees you’ll be remembered.

But because it’s such a powerful color, it can feel tricky to style. How much is too much? What colors should you pair it with? Don't worry. With these five key styling tips, you'll be ready to own your fiery look and absolutely slay at homecoming.

 

1. Add some gold or silver sparkle

We love red homecoming dresses because they go well with any bling—silver or gold!

We're not just talking about jewelry and accessories. Because homecoming dresses are typically short in length (naturally making them more semi-formal), you can dial up the glam with a dress that features silver and gold embellishments. To really let these sparkling metals shine through, opt for a dark red homecoming dress.

Sequins, jewels, lace, beads, and more—your options are endless. If you want a lot of sparkle, go for a dress that features a fully bedazzled bodice. If you're looking for something more subtle, a red dress with a gold or silver belt would be perfect.

2. Add some texture

If adding some sparkle to your red homecoming dress is a little too bold for your taste, we recommend considering a textured dress or a darker shade. (This dark red short homecoming dress with sequins is calling your name!)

Adding texture, rather than a pop of color or sparkle, offers the perfect balance you're looking for—more oomph than a dress featuring just one material, but less flashy than an embellished one.

Tulle, mesh, beads, and sequins are all materials and embellishments that can jazz up your red homecoming dress.

3. Pair with black, gold, silver or nude shoes

Because homecoming dresses are short, your feet will be front and center. In addition to getting a fabulous pedicure, you'll want to rock an eye-catching pair of shoes.

Wearing the same color shoes as your dress is a thing of the past. To rock a red homecoming dress, we recommend choosing a black, gold, silver, or nude pair.

For those who gravitate towards sparkle, go for gold or silver. If you'd like something a bit simpler, both black and nude would look great. For shorter gals, we recommend trying a pair of nude heels—those will really lengthen your legs!

While strappy heeled sandals seem to be the go-to for homecoming, wear what's comfortable to you—you'll be dancing the night away after all! A block heel is an excellent alternative if you want some height but also stability.

4. Wear a belt

We love homecoming dresses that feature belts—and they work well here for two reasons.

First, it helps break up the monochromatic look. Some people worry that wearing only one color will make an outfit boring. Or, with a bold color like red, you may feel like there’s just too much color. This is entirely subjective, but if that thought crossed your mind, then try adding a belt! Thin or thick, it will do the trick.

Plus, belts accentuate your hourglass shape—who could say no to some extra curves?

5. Choose jewelry based on your neckline

Because your homecoming dress is fiery red, you're already bound to attract some eyes. There's no need to wear a lot of jewelry to complete your look—less is certainly more.

With that said, it is homecoming, after all. Take this opportunity to wear one or two of your finest pieces of jewelry! Here's how you can narrow down the options: choose your jewelry based on the neckline of your homecoming dress.

If it features a high neckline, we typically suggest pulling your hair up or away from your face—which means a pair of shoulder-grazing earrings would be perfect!

If your dress has a low V-neck, wear your hair down and rock your favorite necklace.

 

Wearing red is all about attitude. Stand tall, feel confident, and get ready for a night of endless compliments.

Feeling confident about your red dress choice? Don't forget to check our Ultimate Guide to Homecoming Dresses for a complete checklist before the big dance!